New research indicates that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying such treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
